Momentum picks NHS as top campaign after exhaustive poll of supporters

Momentum has identified the NHS as its top cause for campaigning after carrying out an extensive poll of supporters.

Backers of the Corbynite group overwhelmingly chose the defence of the health service as the priority from among 23 options, followed by promotion of the common ownership of public services, and attempts to move public opinion on politics and economics.

The survey was launched in March and was part of Momentum’s attempt to formalise some of its activity as Jeremy Corbyn marked his six-month anniversary as Labour leader.

Today Momentum announced the outcome of an exhaustive poll which asked supporter to select priorities from subjects including public transport, tuition fees, opposing Trident and fighting cuts in grants to local authorities.

The results showed voting as follows:

• “Defending the NHS” with 56.3 per cent.
• “Promoting public ownership of public services and utilities” with 34 per cent.
• “Providing political and economic education” with 19.7 per cent.

“Momentum’s supporters have set our campaign priority, but it is our members who will design the campaign,” a spokesman said.

“A consultation and campaign development process for our members will commence after the EU referendum [on June 23].”

Momentum, a controversial group which was set up to champion Corbyn as leader but has no affiliation to the Labour Party, announced a formal membership scheme in April.

The organisation has attracted members quickly but has divided opinion among Labour MPs. Earlier this year Stella Creasy accused Momentum of “draining the very energy from our political process” but shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has often attended its local meetings.